The Lunar New Year, celebrated in most Asian cultures around the world, begins January 29. Don’t be surprised if you see oranges in local Asian businesses and restaurants during this time – they symbolize wealth and good fortune. This year the Chinese New Year Zodiac symbol is the wood snake.

New to Wildwood, The Humble Native, a market, café and boutique, offers “made in Florida” only gifts.  Some local vendors include Bibbidi Bubbly Soap, Meme’s Fudge, The Stitching Heifers, Clay by Kirsten and Mad Daisy Crochet. The Humble Native also features ice cream from Yoder’s Southern Creamery and offers sumptuous gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches made with local products like orange marmalade and candied jalapeños. Open at 10am Tuesday-Saturday.

THE HUMBLE NATIVE MARKET, CAFE AND BOUTIQUE
819 S. Main St., Wildwood
352.571.8632

National Dress Up Your Pet Day takes place January 14. Here in Lake and Sumter Counties, we love to shop for our little furry friends to keep them in vogue! Find your pet some new duds at one of these local shops: 

LE PUP
4359 S. Hwy. 27
352.708.5612
www.lepupsupplies.com

WOOF GANG BAKERY
The Villages-Palm Ridge Plaza / 352.259.7616
Brownwood / 352.775.4654
Clermont / 1670 SR 50, Suite F / 352.708.4544

KAREN’S CANINE KITCHEN
723 N. 14th St., Leesburg
karensk9kitchen.com

HOBSCOT MOUNT DORA
328 E. 5th Ave., Mount Dora
352.735.6400
hobscot.com

Don’t let Martin Luther King, Jr. Day pass you by on January 20, 2025. This federal holiday honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King celebrates his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement and his enduring message of equality, justice, and nonviolent activism. It’s a day to reflect, give back and continue the work toward a more unified and compassionate world. Consider attending a local event or participating in a service project to commemorate
the day.

The Florida State Legislature established Sumter County as the 29th county in the state on January 8, 1853. The county was named after General Thomas Sumter, a prominent figure in the Revolutionary War. The county seat was originally in Adamsville, but moved to Sumterville in 1881 until the courthouse burned down in 1909, when it was moved to Bushnell where it remains today. 

Ax-Caliber Clermont, one of the city’s newest attractions, brings adrenaline-filled fun to the historic downtown district. Featuring 16 air-conditioned axe-throwing lanes with World Axe Throwing League targets, this venue offers coaching, challenges and games for ages 12 and up, making it perfect for both casual fun and competitive play. Guests can relax in the spacious outdoor seating area, enjoy delicious food from the Los Reyes food truck, and sip drinks from the Blade & Barrel beer and wine bar. Family-friendly touches like soft targets for younger visitors and a convenient pet-friendly bath and fountain ensure everyone feels welcome. With modern upgrades and rustic charm, this is the ultimate spot for entertainment and relaxation. Book your lane in advance or walk in to join the fun!

AX-CALIBER CLERMONT
524 West Avenue
352.592.3500
www.axcaliber.com

The City of Mount Dora announced the opening of an all-inclusive playground at Gilbert Park, 310 S. Tremain Street. The new playground, which opened November 8, replaces the old structure that faced safety concerns, ensuring a safer, bigger and more accessible space to enjoy outdoor playtime for all children ages 2-5 years old and 5-12 years old. According to city officials, approximately one-third of the funding for the project came from the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program.

Enjoy international music this spring with a “Subscription to Destination Evenings” at The Sharon Theatre in The Villages. 

SPANISH SPRINGS TOWN SQUARE
1051 Main St., The Villages
352.751.7799
thesharon.com

UPCOMING SHOWS:

1/14 @ 7pm
Cirque Kalabanté

1/16 @ 7pm
Czech National Orchestra

3/12 @ 7pm
Peking Acrobats

3/26 @ 7pm
Velocity Irish Dance

Officials with the City of Groveland and Rock Ventures recently broke ground on Green Valley Commons at the northwest corner of State Road 50 and Green Valley Blvd. The Commons will be home to Starbucks, Chipotle, McDonald’s, Heartland Dental and Bridgestone!